Tupelohttp://tupelo.net
TupeloThu, 17 Aug 2017 21:52:11 +0000en-UShourly1https://wordpress.org/?v=4.8.1We Don’t Know Anything About This Total Solar Eclipse, So We Asked A Weathermanhttp://tupelo.net/we-dont-know-anything-about-this-total-solar-eclipse-so-we-asked-a-weatherman/
http://tupelo.net/we-dont-know-anything-about-this-total-solar-eclipse-so-we-asked-a-weatherman/#respondWed, 16 Aug 2017 21:35:53 +0000http://tupelo.net/?p=3231088Here at the Tupelo CVB, we are well equipped to speak on a plethora of topics ranging from Elvis Presley’s favorite sandwich (peanut butter & banana, thank ya very much) to the number of hotel rooms we have in town (1,900). However, when it comes to astronomical events like the upcoming total solar eclipse Monday, August 21, we’re at a bit of a loss. In order to figure out how the upcoming total solar eclipse is going to affect Tupelo, we had to bring in an expert.

Everyone meet Joel Young, local meteorologist at WTVA.

Joel Young, meteorologist at WTVA-TV.

Joel, meet everyone.

The following is a Q & A we had with Joel in regards to the total eclipse and what anyone in Tupelo during the eclipse can expect to experience. Enjoy! (Some of the interview has been edited for content and clarity.)

Tupelo CVB: Could you describe what people in Tupelo can expect to experience or see during the eclipse? I know we’re not going to be in the range of totality or whatever they’re calling it, but we’re pretty close and should see some decent coverage, right?

Joel: Though Tupelo will not be in the line of totality, this solar eclipse will still be unforgettable for anyone watching in our area. From our perspective at peak eclipse, about 92 percent of sunlight will be blocked. There will be some darkening of the sky, and some animals may begin to behave differently. But without protective eyewear, you’re not only putting yourself in danger of permanent eye damage; you’re not going to see much change. Even for those who live just outside of the line of totality at 99 percent coverage, just one percent of sunlight will drown out the breath-taking view that will be seen by those who see 100 percent coverage.

CVB: What kind of protection will people need in order to be able to take a look up at the sky during the event?

J: Protective eyewear is a must for anyone who wants to get the most out of their solar eclipse experience in Lee County. These solar eclipse glasses can be purchased at some local retailers, as well as online. However, it’s important to be make sure the glasses are safe. Beware of scams. According to NASA, you should refer to the American Astronomical Society (AAS) Reputable Vendors of Solar Filters & Viewers webpage for a list of manufacturers and authorized dealers. Each pair should be compliant with the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard. Once you have your glasses, make sure they are not scratched or damaged.

If you look through the glasses inside the house and can see anything, they’re not safe. Even some of the brightest lights in our television studio are difficult to see through these glasses.

Also, even a split-second glance directly at the sun can spoil your experience. The resulting blue or green spot made visible to the shut eye could last a few minutes, blocking your view of the eclipse when you put the glasses on. So don’t even think about looking at it with the naked eye. It isn’t worth it, even if you’re lucky enough to somehow avoid permanent damage. It could ruin the fun all together.

Taking pictures of the eclipse is also discouraged. Camera lenses are just as vulnerable to direct sunlight as our eyes. Solar filters are necessary if you’re trying to take pictures of the eclipse in our area. My advice is to enjoy the moment. Soak in the energy of the people around you, and document people’s reactions with pictures and video. Don’t try to photograph the direct sunlight. The picture won’t do it justice, and you’ll just end up with a damaged camera.

CVB: A few similar questions in a row here. What time will the eclipse happen in Tupelo? How long can we expect the event to last? How dark do you believe it will get?

J: The eclipse process will last almost two hours, beginning around 11:55 a.m. and ending around 2:53 p.m. We start out with one percent coverage as the moon begins to move in front of the sun. Then at about 1:26 p.m., we will reach mid-eclipse. This is when we will see 92 percent coverage. From that point until the end of the process, we will see less coverage.

Keep in mind, I’ve never witnessed a solar eclipse personally. But from what I’ve researched, and heard from others who have, 92 percent coverage should lead to some dimming of the sky similar to what we would expect shortly before sunset. Any cloud coverage will lead to a darker sky. But it could also block the view for those looking directly at the sun through the protective eyewear.

CVB: What kind of weather conditions can we expect on the day of the eclipse? How will this affect viewing?

J: So basically, we’re being optimistic… Rain chances and cloud coverage appears to be somewhat typical for a mid-late August afternoon. Unfortunately, that means it’s relatively unpredictable. We usually see pop-up storms this time of year, and they’re often during the afternoon hours–right when the eclipse will be happening.

HOWEVER–There are a few points that might be encouraging.

1. Usually, if we ever see 100% overcast conditions this time of year… It’s in the morning, and we usually clear out by noon.

2. Pop up storms may spoil the event for a brief period of time. But those storms are usually surrounded by sunshine. If a storm pops up, you might be able to move to another location where the sun is shining.

3. Since we’re not expecting totality at all, you have about 2 hours to wait for that cloud or storm to move out of the way… And you can sometimes count on that with storms around here in August–they don’t last long. If you’re in the line of totality, sure–you might see the partial eclipse. But totality only lasts for about 2 to 3 minutes. Just one thunderstorm, or even just one pesky cloud, could ruin it all for you. And there’s no flexibility on moving from one spot to the other in that case.

Here’s an infographic guide to the eclipse from timeanddate.com

CVB: Any good places in mind for people to have a view of the eclipse in Tupelo?

J: For anyone wanting to view the eclipse in Lee County, I would encourage people to take advantage of some of the great city parks we have in Tupelo. Enjoy the historic event with others.

If you’re traveling to the line of totality, there will be a lot of difficulty. Millions of people from all over the world will be traveling to this small area, and most hotels have been booked in these areas for months. Whatever lodging is available is likely going to be expensive. Try to find a friend or family member who lives in these areas, and travel a day or two in advance to avoid traffic. To put this into perspective, Missouri’s Department of Transportation is expecting over a million additional motorists on their roadways in one single day.

As for the best places along that line of totality, and even here at home… There are a few climate maps out there that show the amount of cloud coverage each area sees on average for that single day each year. Our area usually sees 30 percent cloud coverage, which is decent for viewing. In the line of totality, the best chances of seeing less cloud coverage will extend from the Front Range of the Rockies to the Tennessee Valley.

J: We are very excited about this event at WTVA, and we plan to cover every single angle of it. You can find all kinds of information about this event in the eclipse section of our website: wtva.com/eclipse.

As we lead up to the event, WTVA 9 News and WLOV will air an eight part series from August 13 to August 20 addressing all these things and more. On Sunday, August 20, I will be hosting a 30 minute preview special called The Darkest Hour. Then, the day of the eclipse, we will have reporters and experts scattered all across North Mississippi, as well as the line of totality, taking you to the epicenter of the excitement.

So make sure to stay tuned to more information on when you can catch these events. And remember, the eclipse section of our website will provide interactive maps and simulations of the event.

This marks the end of the Q & A.

Wow! We’d really like to thank Joel for taking the time to answer our questions about the upcoming eclipse. The man brought some serious details.

Please, please, please remember to wear protective eyewear if you plan on getting a look at this monumental event, your eyes will thank you.

If you have interest in traveling to an area that is within the line of totality from Tupelo, Contour Airlines provides quick, inexpensive, and direct flights to Nashville, TN, where you can experience the event at 100 percent coverage.

2. @kermitsoutlawkitchen

3. @popsypopsicles

4. @strange2075

5. @rileymane

6. @xitsdelovelyx

7. @rob.lesley

8. @thefarmhousetupelo

9. @tupelobloggers

10. @downtowntupelo

]]>http://tupelo.net/10-mytupelo-photos-we-loved-in-july/feed/05 Summer Things To Do in Tupelohttp://tupelo.net/5-summer-things-to-do-in-tupelo/
http://tupelo.net/5-summer-things-to-do-in-tupelo/#respondWed, 28 Jun 2017 14:27:05 +0000http://tupelo.net/?p=32092501. Watch the fireworks in Ballard Park for July 4th

Every Independence Day THE BIGGEST 4th of July celebration in North Mississippi takes place Ballard Park. With food vendors, music on the stage, inflatables for kids to play on and much more, this event is a great way to spend your day on July 4th in anticipation of the wonderful fireworks display that takes place that night!

2. Do some shopping at Barnes Crossing Mall

Summertime can also mean shopping time for some, whether it’s back to school shopping or finding that perfect new summer outfit, The Mall at Barnes Crossing is a great place to get it done. The mall is a super regional mall located northeast of Downtown Tupelo. It is home to over 90 specialty shops, five anchor stores and an eight-screen Cinemark movie theater, and a 600-seat food court.

3. Enjoy a free Down on Main concert

The Down on Main Summer Concert Series consists of three free concerts that take place in Fairpark over the next three months. The atmosphere is fun, family friendly and a perfect way to spend a summer night! The concerts will be July 13 featuring Heath Green & the Makeshifters with support from Papa Mali, August 10 with blues prodigy Kingfish and Mr. Sipp, and September 14 featuring Jeff Crosby and the Refugees with George McConnell.

4. Hike the Blackland Prairie Trail on The Natchez Trace

(Photo by @remy.thegolden)

This scenic trailhead is located just across the Parkway from the Natchez Trace Parkway Visitor Center (Mile Marker 266). Hikers can travel six miles along the outskirts of Tupelo, or 12 miles roundtrip if they prefer. This hike is a perfect way to enjoy the great outdoors within Tupelo while never being too far from the Trace itself.

5. See some incredible classic cars (and enjoy the cool A.C.) at the Tupelo Automobile Museum

If the outdoors aren’t really your thing (or maybe it’s just a rainy day), the Tupelo Automobile Museum is a great way to spend a summer day inside checking out some amazing classic cars. Once just one mans private car collection, the museum is now 120,000 square feet of automobile displays and open viewing restoration bays featuring over 100 antique, classic and collectible automobiles, chronologically displayed, illustrating the progress of over 100 years of automobile design and engineering. The collection is valued at over $6 million!

Doesn’t get much better than summer days hanging out in Ballard Park with some good friends and a shave ice.

2. @justintaylor_official (Justin Taylor)

The Nautical Whimsey alley always provides a great view to the courthouse at night.

3. @mississippiinHDR

MississippiinHDR is always out there taking amazing photos of our state. You should follow him here!

4. @sunheraldbiloxi

The Tupelo Buffalo Park and Zoo welcomed two new tiger cubs into the world this past month. Here’s one giving a growl.

5. @tupeloelvisfest

J Roddy Walston & The Business rocked Tupelo during the Tupelo Elvis Festival!

6. @tupelohardware (Tupelo Hardware Co.)

Ever wonder what almost 20 Elvi singing with a 13-year-old Elvis inside Tupelo Hardware Company would look like? Well, probably a lot like this.

7. @thejakelyle (Jake Lyle)

The Bandit Run was eastbound and down through Tupelo in late June. Jake was able to capture all of the Trans-Am-filled glory.

8. @mr.elrod

Summer is for fishing. Elvis Presley lake helps make that happen.

9. @TawnyiHeart (Tawny, KZ103)

Three words: Don’t. Stop. Believin’!

10. @TunicaBlues

While the Delta will always be the home of the blues, Tupelo finds itself on the Mississippi Blues Trail as well. Tunica’s tourism office stopped by the Elvis Presley Birthplace and got a shot of the marker!

Taken at Tupelo’s SremmFest in December, hosted by hometown hip-hop duo Rae Sremmurd, Jorge captures Tupelo-born and world-famous producer/musician Diplo in this shot. We dig it.

2. @downtowntupelo

We loved this shot of a youth performance downtown during the Tupelo GumTree Arts Festival!

3. @melnickvecchio (Melissa Vecchio)

“Based on this photo, I believe my daughter is already an Elvis fan like me!”- Melissa

4. @MSSPORTSTODAY

Our Tupelo Golden Wave baseball team took home the state championship last month and we couldn’t be more proud! Of course they’re one of our photos of the month.

5. @unitedfitnesstupelo

Speaking of championships, our fast pitch softball Lady Wave ALSO WON the 6A state championship last month. Yes, we are bragging on our hometown teams. No, we do not care.

6. @bradenwray (Braden Wray)

This is Sophia attending her very first Blue Suede Cruise and apparently enjoying the American muscle car section.

7. @ayakaya0408 (Aya Omura)

Taken out at the Tupelo Buffalo Park & Zoo, Aya got up close and personal with some buffalo.

8. @bobtank (Bob Tankersly)

Fun fact: This photo evokes a much more emotional response if you’ve ever had a Connie’s Blueberry Donut or one of their chicken biscuits with gravy.

9. @BirdsEyeMedia_ (A.J. Stewart)

We’re not sure if May was “Bring Your Baby To Tupelo Month” or what, regardless, we loved this shot from Bird’s Eye Media of a baby cooling off with a Tupelo fan during the GumTree Arts Festival.

10. @1cookingchick (Lauren McElwain)

This is called the Maui Wowie. You can find it at the Local Mobile food truck. You are welcome and thanks to @1cookingchick for the great shot!

Want to be featured here? Use #MyTupelo when sharing your photos for your chance!

]]>http://tupelo.net/10-mytupelo-photos-we-loved-in-may/feed/0Answering Any and All Questions About the Elvis Festival Pet Paradehttp://tupelo.net/answering-any-and-all-questions-about-the-elvis-festival-pet-parade/
http://tupelo.net/answering-any-and-all-questions-about-the-elvis-festival-pet-parade/#respondWed, 31 May 2017 14:04:55 +0000http://tupelo.net/?p=3202375Between the Tupelo Elvis Festival Tribute Artist competition and the concerts going on downtown, it’s easy to forget about the Elvis Festival Pet Parade that takes place every Saturday morning at the Bancorp South Arena.

The Pet Parade, which begins at 9 a.m. on Saturday, June 3rd, benefits the Tupelo-Lee Humane Society and gives out cash prizes for winners in categories like “Elvis Look-a-Like,” “Best Costume,” “Most Unusual,” and “Pet-Owner Look-a-Like.” To help you get in the know about this upcoming Pet Parade, we’re going to answer some questions you may or may not have.

What exactly is the Pet Parade?

Pretty much exactly what it sounds like. You dress up your pets (and even yourself!) and show them in front of a very happy and pet friendly audience for the chance to win prizes and benefit the local humane society. The entry fee is $10 per pet if you pre-register and $15 the day of.

What should I dress up my pet as?

Anything you’d like to dress it up as, really. You can see above that this dog just felt like being an Ole Miss Rebel for the day.

Should I dress my pet up like Elvis?

While it’s encouraged and there is a category for best Elvis look-a-like, you don’t have to, unless perhaps you have a hound dog.

Can kids participate too?

You bet they can!

How tough is the competition?

While there is some money on the table, this is probably the friendliest competition you’ll ever compete in. It’s all about the animals and having fun. Make no mistake, though, people still bring their A-game.

I’m starting to notice it’s almost all dogs. Is this competition just for dogs?

(See above photo.) Most of the competition is dogs, we’ll admit, but that definitely doesn’t mean you have to have a dog.

Can I use props?

Props are definitely welcome. This dog didn’t even have to walk in the parade, opting instead for a skateboard-Cadillac.

Random question, what if I just want to dress my pet up as a plant?

That really is a random question, but sure, do your thing.

What if my dog is super tiny, like, still a puppy?

Bring on the cuteness. More cuteness also welcome.

Do I get a trophy if I win?

You sure do! (A big one, at that.)

What should I wear?

If you’re trying to win the look-a-like category like this woman above did, then try to look like your pet as much as possible. If not, then dressing up like Elvis is always encouraged.

We hope that answers all your questions, some of which were really off-the-wall, we might add. For more info check out tupeloelvisfestival.com!

]]>http://tupelo.net/answering-any-and-all-questions-about-the-elvis-festival-pet-parade/feed/0Your Guide to 2017’s Tupelo Elvis Festival Bandshttp://tupelo.net/your-guide-to-2017s-tupelo-elvis-festival-bands/
http://tupelo.net/your-guide-to-2017s-tupelo-elvis-festival-bands/#respondFri, 26 May 2017 13:59:16 +0000http://tupelo.net/?p=3200587The Tupelo Elvis Festival is a celebration designed to honor Elvis Presley, Tupelo’s native son, and the impact that his music has on the world.The 19th annual Tupelo Elvis Festival will be June 1-4, 2017.

We’ve put together this post to help you get acquainted with some of the artists that will be gracing the Fairpark and Music at the Mill stages this year. Some you know, some you’ve never heard of before, but all are here to make sure you have a rocking time. Let’s dive into it.

The Headliners

The Weeks – Music at the Mill, June 1st

The Weeks, coming off the recent release of their fifth album, “Easy,” are raucous Mississippi rockers who have toured all over the world after signing with Kings of Leon’s label, Serpents and Snakes. The Weeks will headline Thursday nights’ all Mississippi artist lineup at the Mill. Watch the video for their hit single Buttons above.

Lee Fields & The Expressions, Fairpark, June 2nd

“Apologies to the late, great James Brown, but you’d be hard pressed to find another singer who’s ever worked as hard as Fields, a man who’s been making soul and funk anthems since 1969.

Since that time, Fields has toured the world with musical legends like Kool and the Gang, Sammy Gordon and the Hip-Huggers, O.V Wright, Darrell Banks, and Little Royal. Recorded with French house DJ/producer Martin Solveig. And somehow found a newer, younger audience and become more prolific as the years transpire.”- from Fields’ bio.

J Roddy Walston & The Business, Fairpark, June 3rd

“Specializing in a classic-sounding Southern rock/Americana style that emphasizes songs and danceable kinetics over empty hipness and trendy pop gimmicks, J. Roddy Walston and the Business formed in Cleveland, Tennessee in 2002, moving north to Baltimore, Maryland two years later in 2004.”- Steve Leggett

With an electrifying live show with J Roddy Walston and his piano at the center of it all, J Roddy Walston & The Business will be rolling into Tupelo as they finalize their fourth studio album. They’re ready to rock if you’re ready to roll.

The Up-and-Comers

Dylan Leblanc & The Pollies, Fairpark, June 3rd

“Signed to Rough Trade Records before he was 20 years old, LeBlanc cut his teeth duetting with Emmylou Harris and opening for Bruce Springsteen. He sounds older, wiser and considerably warmer on his upcoming album, Cautionary Tale (out January 15th), which finds the Muscle Shoals native working with two hometown heroes: the Civil Wars’ John Paul White and the Alabama Shakes’ Ben Tanner.” – Rolling Stone

Futurebirds, Fairpark, June 3rd

“Six years ain’t a hell of a lot of time, but Futurebirds have filled ‘em with a whole lot of living. Laying down their shoe-gazing country, harmonious psychedelia, and barnstorming, ragged rock both on record and in person, the Athens-based band presents a delicate balance on Hotel Parties, its third full-length record that explores the toils, joys, and struggles exposed by six years doing any one thing so intensely.”- Kevin Monty, Red Light Management

Amasa Hines, Fairpark, June 2nd

Amasa Hines is the name of the whole band, not just one person (we’ve checked.) This Little Rock, Arkansas, rock group is electrifying to watch and puts their heart and soul into every performance.

LUTHI, Fairpark, June 2nd

“After playing Americana for five or six years, writing with and for various artists in the city, he’s (Christian Luthi) decided to pursue his long-time vision of a funk crew. “I felt like I was writing what I was writing because everyone was doing it,” he says. “I’ve always just wanted to create something that people can boogie to — something that’s timeless.”

Now, rolling with a big band including various horns and a variety of saucy vibes, he’s beginning the next part of the saga. The band is a true melting pot, no one is from the same place. LUTHI has a bit of something for everybody. It’s time for people to get down. That’s really it. So put on something weird, take off your shoes, and come on.”

The Mississippians

Rock Eupora, Music at the Mill, June 1st

“Born and raised in Jackson Mississippi, Clayton Waller AKA Rock Eupora creates a lively blend of gritty rock and shimmering pop straight from his DIY home studio. Currently operating in Nashville, Rock Eupora uses galactic hooks and melodies to dive into themes of love, time, transition, and faith. The new album, Soon the Sun Will Come, shows Waller taking his ‘fuzz pop’ sound into a more polished and refined territory of indie music.”

H.A.R.D. (Have a rad day)/ Formerly known as Light Beam Rider

Music at the Mill, June 1st

Formerly known as Light Beam Rider, the new group H.A.R.D. (Have A Rad Day), brings Mississippi indie and alt-rock to the Mill on Thursday in the hopes of making sure everyone has a rad night.

2. Who’s a good boy?? @brady_thegoldenboy couldn’t look any cuter if he tried.

3. What could make a KOK burger even better? Just a side of fries and a cold Yalo-brew (@kermitsoutlawkitchen).

4. But when you think Tim McGraw (and Faith Hill)…we hope you think of this picture. Thanks Wendy Lee (@thewendylee17) for capturing this shot from the concert!

5. @abbywanders A picture is worth a thousand words, but this one only needs three: Tupelo Hardware Co6. Bishop’s BBQ + white t-shirts may or may not go together. We’ll let @dasmuchanator be the judge of that.

7. Long live Elvis and long live photos like these! (@ruodriks)

8. Smiles like this make us want to learn gymnastics. Thanks @tupgymnasticsMS for spreading the love!

9. Nothing says springtime like an Easter egg hunt near a flowerbed of daffodils. Don’t you agree, @tupelobloggers?

10. We had to do a double take to make sure we weren’t looking at the King himself. Shout out to @tributeartist72 for almost fooling us!

]]>http://tupelo.net/10-mytupelo-photos-we-loved-in-april/feed/0Breakfast is Worth Getting Up For in Tupelohttp://tupelo.net/breakfast-is-worth-getting-up-for-in-tupelo/
http://tupelo.net/breakfast-is-worth-getting-up-for-in-tupelo/#respondThu, 13 Apr 2017 18:18:03 +0000http://tupelo.net/?p=3169216While many restaurants in Tupelo are known for their burgers, pizza, and BBQ, few are known for their breakfast. Those that like to get an early start on their day may know about some of these local spots. For those that don’t, here are some of the breakfasts you’ve been missing out on.

Connie’s Fried Chicken

The early bird gets the…..chicken? Starting at 6:00 a.m. Connie’s puts their mouth watering chicken ‘n’ biscuits smothered in white gravy on the rack. If chicken isn’t your thing that early in the day, don’t worry; they’ve got you covered. Connie’s home makes their legendary blueberry donuts fresh every morning.

Crave

Known as Tupelo’s dessert cafe, Crave is just as yummy in the morning. From scones and biscuits to muffins and quiche, Crave has it all. If you want something with a little more meat in the morning, order some sausage balls or a meat biscuit. All of their sausage and bacon are sourced locally from the Neon Pig.

Fairpark Grill

Sometimes you just need to skip breakfast and go straight for brunch. Known for their crab cakes, Fairpark Grill has taken your favorite entree and turned it into a breakfast item with their version of eggs benedict. They’ve also got a breakfast burger, chicken & waffles, and a sampler plate for those who just can’t decide. For those of age, don’t forget to try out their bloody mary bar that includes everything but the kitchen sink.

Photo taken by @dttupelo on Instagram.

Forklift

Tupelo’s newest neighborhood restaurant, Forklift is known for their innovative Southern cuisine. Soon, Chef David Leathers and the Forklift crew will open Butterbean, Forklift’s sister coffee and pastry shop in the back of the restaurant, inviting patrons for their morning cup of coffee to get the day started right.

Café 212

Everyone’s favorite lunch spot serves coffee all day as well. Coffee 212 is open Monday through Thursday until 6:00 p.m. and until 3:00 p.m. on Fridays. If you’re Downtown and need a little afternoon pick-me-up, stop by Cafe 212 to get a cup of joe. Grab one of their homemade ham and white cheddar biscuits to get your morning started off right.

Shockley’s

A staple in the Tupelo community, Shockley’s is known as a place where friends gather for breakfast. It’s been open for as long as most Tupelo natives can remember, and for good reason. Their pancakes and homemade grits are almost as good as their customer service. Eat a meal here and you’ll leave satisfied.

South

Stop by on Saturday and Sunday mornings for a real Southern breakfast. They serve everything from eggs benedict with fried chicken to an Elvis themed french toast. Eat here once and before you know it, you’ll be at South every weekend. Their mimosa bar includes a vast array of fruit juices and purees.

The Stables

A bar by night, a local brunch spot by day, you can find The Stables nestled in an alley on Spring Street for your Saturday brunch needs. While only open for brunch one day a week, it’ll help keep your weekend rolling!

Located just off Deer Park Road in East Tupelo, “EP” is the perfect spot for any outdoorsman. Whether you’re fishing, kayaking, or boating, you’ll be sure to have a great time on the water. Not into water sports? Roast some marshmallows over a fire and enjoy the campgrounds.

2. Crave’s Skillet Cookie

Price $8

Nothing says “comfort food” quite like a few pounds of cookie dough baked in a cast iron skillet. Top it off with a couple scoops of ice cream and an ice cold glass of milk in a mason jar, and you won’t be able to put your spoon down. While this “cookie” is big enough to share, no one will blame you if you order one all for yourself.

3. Disc Golf

Price: Free

While Tupelo has 10 total disc golf courses, the most popular are located at Veterans Park, Ballard Park, and Tombigbee State Park. Each course has a different terrain and presents a new challenge for every skill level. Go check them all out to see which one is your favorite!

4. Fairpark

Price: Free

Want to shake hands with Elvis? Come downtown and hang out with Elvis’ 1956 Homecoming statue in one of Tupelo’s prettiest parks. Whether you’re there to listen to music or to get some food from one of Tupelo’s food trucks, Fairpark is always a great place to relax.

5. Blackland Prairie Trail — Natchez Trace Parkway

Price: Free

This scenic trail is located off the Natchez Trace Parkway near mile marker 266, just across from the Visitor Center. The trail is six miles long, twelve total, but you can make it however long or short you want. You’ll be able to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Natchez Trace whether you’re walking or running.

6. Down On Main

Price: Free

Down On Main is a free concert series hosted by the Downtown Tupelo Main Street Association. From Elvis to Rae Sremmurd, Tupelo is known for producing many successful music artists from all genres. Down On Main continues that tradition bringing high quality music to our area. The series is hosted every summer, so check the events page on our website and see when your favorite band is playing.

Photo taken by @mississippiinhdr

7. Elvis Presley Birthplace

Price: $8

You can’t come to Tupelo without seeing where the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll was born and raised. Located in East Tupelo, this two-room shack was built by Elvis’ father in 1934. For an extra $9, you can tour the Elvis Presley Museum and Assembly of God Church that he attended.

8. Tupelo Automobile Museum

Price: $10

For ten dollars you can see one of the most interesting museums in the South. This collection boasts over 100 antique, classic, and collectible cars. In the self-guided tour, you can see an 1886 Benz, the first car ever made, one of Elvis’ Lincolns, and a never before driven Dodge Viper. Whether you have a license to drive, or not, even the most inexperienced driver will be impressed by this collection.

9. Live Music

Price: Free-$10

Come out to one of Tupelo’s many restaurants to hear a little bit of local, live music. Some businesses may charge a cover, but it’ll be worth it once the band starts playing. Check out the events page on our website to get a full list of who’s playing when and where.

10. West of Shake Rag performances, The Link Centre

Price: $5

Tupelo’s very own improv comedy troupe in the great tradition of Whose Line Is It Anyway? Thank God You’re Here, or NPR’s Wait Wait… Don’t Tell Me!, each show is uniquely different but sure to make you laugh! Enjoy a unique night out for just five bucks.